BY JORGE SAMPAIO,
UN HIGH REPRESENTATIVE FOR THE ALLIANCE OF CIVILIZATIONS

Lisbon, December, 27, 2007


Excellency,

Deeply shocked by the horrible news about Ms Benazir Bhutto’s death and at least 15 other people in a presumed criminal terrorist attack that has taken place this morning in Rawalpindi, during an election rally, I would like to convey to you, Mr. President, the expression of my deepest sorrow and sympathy.

Nothing can excuse this despicable act of murderous violence against women and men who participated in the rally for one purpose only: to express their free support to advance democracy in their country. Such a terrorist attack should not effect the determination of Pakistani people to build a democratic country and their determination to stay united against such attacks.

Extremism in all its forms should be firmly condemned. Pursuing the path of national reconciliation and refraining from violence and civil unrest, is indeed the best way to show criminals they are completely isolated and that they have committed a crime against Pakistan itself.

At this moment of greatest concern and grief, please accept the expression of my heartfelt sympathy, and please convey my solidarity and deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to the people of Pakistan who have lost one of their most well-known public figures.

Jorge Sampaio